Chicken Florentine Recipe

There’s something deeply comforting about a dish that feels both elegant and effortless—the kind of meal that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen but actually comes together in one pan while the family sets the table. That’s the magic of this Chicken Florentine recipe. It’s a timeless classic that marries tender, pan-seared chicken with a velvety spinach Parmesan sauce, creating a dinner that’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to pull off. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight crowd or prepping for a cozy weekend meal, this creamy chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss.

I first fell in love with Chicken Florentine years ago at a little Italian trattoria, where the chef described it as “rustic elegance on a plate.” Since then, I’ve made it my mission to recreate that same balance of simplicity and sophistication at home. With fresh spinach, garlic, cream, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish feels indulgent yet wholesome. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and maybe even pour a glass of wine while you’re at it.

If you’re looking for more creamy, Italian-inspired dinners, you’ll love our Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup—it’s another family favorite that brings comfort in a bowl.

Chicken Florentine Recipe Ingredients

This Chicken Florentine recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a luxurious sauce and perfectly cooked chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for finishing)

Smart Substitutions

If you’re out of heavy cream, half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. You can also swap fresh spinach for frozen—just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using.

Chicken Florentine Timing

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes

This Chicken Florentine recipe comes together in just over half an hour, making it a fantastic option for busy evenings when you want something special without the long wait.

Step-by-Step Chicken Florentine Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, flavorful Chicken Florentine that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it can turn bitter if overcooked.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Spinach Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring until wilted. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let everything heat through for 2–3 minutes. For an extra glossy finish, stir in a tablespoon of butter just before serving.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 chicken breast with sauce): Calories: 420 | Protein: 35g | Carbs: 6g | Fat: 28g

This Chicken Florentine recipe is rich in protein and vitamins from the spinach, making it a nourishing and satisfying meal.

Equipment Needed for Chicken Florentine

You don’t need any fancy tools to make this dish. A large skillet (non-stick or stainless steel works well), a sharp knife, and a stirring spoon are all you’ll need. If you want to grate your own Parmesan, a microplane or box grater will come in handy.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Florentine Recipe

• It’s a one-pan wonder—less cleanup, more flavor.
• The creamy spinach Parmesan sauce feels indulgent but is easy to make.
• It’s versatile: serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables.
• Perfect for impressing guests or treating your family to a restaurant-style meal at home.

If you enjoy creamy, garlicky chicken dishes, you should try our Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for another comforting dinner idea.

Healthier Alternatives for Chicken Florentine

This Chicken Florentine recipe is already packed with nutrients thanks to the spinach and lean chicken, but here are a few tweaks to make it even lighter:

• Use Greek yogurt or light coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lower-fat sauce.
• Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, or use turkey cutlets for a leaner option.
• Add extra veggies like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus for more fiber and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Florentine

This creamy chicken recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Over a bed of fettuccine or linguine for a classic Italian feel.
• With mashed cauliflower or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce.
• With crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious spinach Parmesan sauce.

For another easy, creamy pasta dish, check out our 30-Minute Creamy Tortellini Carbonara Recipe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks can run into issues when making a creamy sauce. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the chicken: Remove it from the skillet as soon as it reaches 165°F to keep it tender.
• Adding spinach all at once: Wilting it in batches ensures even cooking and prevents a watery sauce.
• Using pre-shredded Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly.

Storing Tips for Chicken Florentine

This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

While I don’t recommend freezing this Chicken Florentine recipe (the cream-based sauce can separate upon thawing), you can freeze the cooked chicken separately and make a fresh batch of sauce when ready to serve.

If you’re looking for another make-ahead chicken dinner, our Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie is a fantastic option.

Chicken Florentine Recipe Conclusion

This Chicken Florentine recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, creamy dinner that brings people together. With its tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and rich Parmesan sauce, it’s a dish that feels special without requiring advanced cooking skills. Whether you’re new to Italian chicken dishes or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation.

I’d love to hear how your Chicken Florentine turns out! Leave a comment below with your thoughts or any creative twists you tried. And if you share your creation on Pinterest, don’t forget to tag @Stacksipsnack so I can see your masterpiece.

For more easy, family-friendly dinners, explore our Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Veggies—it’s another weeknight lifesaver you’ll love.

FAQs about Chicken Florentine Recipe

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